Alternate Ceremony Sites to Sapphire Point Overlook

UPDATE 1/24/25:  We have another update to Sapphire Point.  Have you noticed a theme here yet?  Dillon Ranger District is stating that the site will be closed June 2 through 20 to facilitate parking lot rennovations. They are also asking that couples interested in an event there to please reach out to the Dillon Ranger District at 970-468-5400 for the most current information. 

• Our suggestion:  forgo Sapphire Point for 2025 and plan on an alternate site either in Summit County (this resource is invaluable) or another amazing spot around Colorado (get started here). 

UPDATE 1/20/25:  Though Sapphire Point is now open for booking, there is construction scheduled for September & October of 2025.  Fall can be some of the most beautiful times of year for weddings in the Colorado Montains, so I ope that this guide will help you find alternate locations.  

UPDATE 11/25/23:  It was over three years ago when I first wrote this article in response to COVID shutdowns.  Back in April of 2020, we had 60 couples booked for micro weddings, about half of whom had been planning  Sapphire Point Overlook wedding.  Throughout the summer of 2020, Sapphire Point maxed-out at 10 people total including vendors.  Since many of our weddings were around 20 people (give or take), I scouted and found alternate sites in Summit County for couples to have outdoor ceremonies 

Fast-forward to today:  the Dillon Ranger District (part of the Wind River US Forest Service), who manages Sapphire Point Overlook, has announced that they will be conducting intermittent construction in 2024/25. They do not know specific dates, and they have also closed the reservation system (as of 11/22/23).  This naturally puts a spin on planning 2024/25 weddings at Sapphire Point.  There have been no clear plans announced as to what dates will be possible for weddings and when/how booking the overlook will become available.  The National Forest Service does have a website in which they will be announcing future plans.  But for now, if you have your heart set on a Sapphire Point Overlook wedding, here are several different ways in which you can approach it.  I'd be happy to work with you in designing logistics for a Summit County wedding (considering Plan A and Plan B) with my intimate wedding package.  

1. Move forward with planning a Sapphire Point Overlook wedding (Plan A) and then setup an alternate ceremony site (Plan B) if construction or booking will interrupt your plans. 
2. Move to planning  Plan B wedding ceremony site with alternate micro-wedding spots located in Summit County (continue reading below so some site ideas ⬇️ ⬇️). 
3. Consider a different micro-wedding destination in other areas of the state such as Estes Park, Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado/Manitou Springs, Eagle County (Vail, Beaver Creek), Denver, Boulder or along the Front Range (inner mountains).  I know many gorgeous sites and you can launch your wedding plans through a Customized Ceremony Site Report which provides you detailed information based on your group size, time of year, needs, accessibility, priorities, budget and vision. 

Regardless of what happens with Sapphire Point Overlook, I have the background, knowledge and experience to help couples strategies their micro wedding plans.  If you would like assurance, confidence and ease in planning your micro wedding please reach out to me as I help couples plan their day affordably with quality elements - just read my reviews from real couples!  

Download Summit County Sites & Restaurants Guide □

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⬇️ Summit County Micro-Wedding Spots that are NOT Sapphire Point ⬇️

⬇️  Original article from May of 2020  ⬇️

Hundreds of couples received alarming news last Thursday regarding the closure of Sapphire Point Overlook, a well-known and popular ceremony site for small intimate weddings and elopements.  Though the message indicated that the area may re-open, it is unsettling when planning a wedding.  Since we help many couples plan their weddings at Sapphire Point,  I took off on Saturday to find equally as beautiful ceremony locations in Summit County to use as “Plan B”.  There are other (comparable to a large wedding) affordable places you can officially book a wedding:

• Breckenridge Historical Society.  Lomax Mine is a cool site!  We’ve taken couples there for photos. 
• Frisco Historical Park - the pavilion or historical chapel.  The Town of Frisco Also has some other possible spots - I keep those secret/private for couples who book our package or Ceremony Site Report. 
• Dillon Marina Park Pavilion - through the town of Dillon.  11/25/23 Update:  they open booking in May for the the following year.  So, we advise arranging another alternate "rogue" spot
• Carter Park through the town of Breckenridge
• The Lodge at Breckenridge - deck with views:  there will be a little bit more of a site fee associated as it is a typical wedding venue.  They may offer better pricing on the week days.
• Boreas Pass - this season mountain road is located south of Breckenridge.  You can stop along the road at any scenic field, hop out and exchange vows.  At the top of the pass (9.8 miles from town) there is a railroad historical site and do the left of the mail building, there is a field where you can stand around and exchange vows.  I am uncertain of any permitting regulations - so be sure to check on that.   It is a great spot for fall foliage and well known for "leaf peeping".  So, if you plan a late September wedding, we recommend non-weekend dates.  In the summer, there are plenty of fields that boast July wildflowers.  I recommend this for a more "rogue" type of couple, smaller groups (15 or fewer).
• Sawmill Reservoir, Breckenridge. This is often recommended in Facebook Groups, however I would not recommend it at a ceremony site but rather a spot for post-ceremony photos.  It is part of a trail and not much room for a group of people to stand around (no seating possible).  Many photographers take couples there for engagement photos (but not for ceremonies).  If you do decide to marry here, I would limit your group to about 10, all will need to be able to physically walk for 1 to 2 miles. 
• Keystone’s Keytop Deck - starts at $2,000+ for a ceremony fee.   11/25/23 Update: Keystone no longer offers this option.   However, we have taken small groups to the top of the mountain accessible via chairlift or gondola, walk to a pretty spot and stand around to exchange vows.  This is a little more expensive option as lift tickets (foot passes) would need to be purchased for each person.  
• Go “rogue" on top of Vail Pass (Shrine Mountain Road):  this is gorgeous!  I would recommend up to #20 guests for this location.  Since Vail Pass is in between both Summit and Eagle County, you could stay either in Frisco/Silverthorn/Dillon or Vail. 
• "Rogue" spots around the county:  I reserve information about these spots for my intimate wedding couples as they are on fragile natural lands that we don't want to see overrun.  If you want a more detailed insider information about these unique areas, the ceremony site report will give you access (and, its a great way to launch my services).  
  • SECRET PARK:  There is a park in Summit County with amazing views in which seating can be setup (okay for groups up to 35 or 40).  Sorry - we keep this spot exclusive to our couples - click here to get started.
  • TRAILHEADS:  There are also some accessible trailheads that don't require a hike, boasts incredible views, that have nearby parking (okay for groups up to 20 - seating not possible). 
  • LAKE DILLON:  there are some spots along the shores of Lake Dillon that are "rogue". have nearby parking (no hike needed) and can also allow for benches/seating to be setup. . 

In light of Covid19, we wanted to find more private, “rogue” spots on public lands that are beautiful, open, and outdoorsy so as to respect and maintain physical distancing policies. 

Disclaimer:  my 8-year-old son was the videographer and all the images are from my iPhone.  A  professional photographer would have done a much better job.  But still, the views are pretty darn amazing!  Disclaimer #2:  I am unsure of permitting at any of these sites and need to research - some may require no permit if under #75 people (of course our weddings are MUCH smaller), others may require a photography and/or special events permit.  If anyone knows, please comment!

Finally, if you are planning a wedding as Sapphire Point, I would recommend holding on to the reservation in case it does open.  The email states:  "If the location remains closed at the start of your reservation, and your reservation falls entirely within the closure period, we will cancel your reservation and provide a full refund.”  So, are you reading this the way I am?  No harm if you keep the reservation. But, work with your planner to establish a “Plan B”.  Here are some of those ideas and sites we scoped out: ​

Download: Summit Co Sites & Restaurants

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Loveland Pass Elopement

This is a high-alpine site easily accessible off Loveland Pass Highway. These photos are in late May, so unless you want snow and possible muddy spots, I recommend ceremonies here mid-to-late June through September.  If we have a warm fall, October would be great too!  There is about a 200-yard lane from the main highway to a parking area where there are also picnic benches.  No hike is needed, but bring your comfy shoes to explore the area for various photo opportunities.

 This is a “rogue” ceremony location, meaning that there is no official site - just pic a pretty area, stand around and exchange vows.  Though there may be others enjoying the pass, generally the public will give you space so that you can enjoy exchanging vows.  

​Since it is at high alpine elevation, we do recommend that you dress warm as temperatures will be 20-degress color than in Keystone/Dillon ..... and it can be quite windy.  With my intimate wedding/elopement package I do have loaner furs thatI send with the coordinator/photographer in case the high-alpine air gets a little chilly. 

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Tenderfoot-Oro Grande Trail

This is an easily accessibly trail from the town of Dillon that overlooks Lake Dillon (and the town).  It is a wide trail, and if you are up for hiking about 5 to 10 minutes, there is an flat open area in which you can stand for a “rogue” ceremony (it is the blue-colored “u” on the AllTrails map).  

The pros are the it is close to town with some of the views that Sapphire Point is known.   If you are lodging near Keystone or Dillon, the is very close.  Plus, there are some restaurants very closely for celebrating:  Pug Ryan in Dillon, The Dillon Dam Brewery, and Sauce on the Blue are a few (I do have more to recommend for our couples who book my package).

Its also got a tree-lined hike with pines and an aspen grove, which would be gorgeous for fall photos!  For an adventure couple that wants to hike, but not too far, this would be a great option.   

The cons are that it is heavily trafficked, but that flat area that has the feeling of an overlook helps to pull-off from the main trail.  Parking can be full.  Though, if you have a later afternoon or early evening ceremony, most folks will be heading off the trail.   Planning a Sunday late afternoon or mid-week wedding will have fewer visitors. 

I haven't yet done a ceremony here, but if this spot speaks to you, please contact me as I'd love to plan a wedding utilizing this scenic spot. 

Microwedding Package Information

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Officer’s Gulch Elopement Site

Officer’s Gulch is very easily accessible and located between Frisco and Copper Mountain right off Interstate-70, with plenty of parking.  It is popular for fishing and we saw one paddle boarder on the lake (though it was only May!).  The 1.1 mile trail around the lake is easy, though you can have a ceremony near the beginning and on the shores if your group doesn’t want to do the hike.  The views are pictures and the water is clear!  If you have a ceremony with guests near the entrance, schedule some time with the photographer post ceremony for a little stroll 1/2 way around the lake (prep for a few muddy areas, but those can be circumvented.  It only took us 5 to 10 minutes to get to our lunch spot where we shot the video.   The pros are the accessibility and the scenery.  The cons are other users of the area (though they all kept to themselves) and noise from the I-70 traffic.  If you decide to do a wedding there in the peak of the summer, bring bug spray! 

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Secret Park for a Breckenridge Elopement

This park is a locals secret!  It is an unmarked spot between Breckenridge and Frisco.  There is a little bit of parking, so we encourage carpooling.  Though it is a public spot, other users of the area are friendly and polite - and, if they see a white dress will likely offer congratulations and keep their distance.  There are a couple of flat lawn-like areas for a ceremony, and a dock that goes out onto a pond (though, its a little rickety so I wouldn’t put too many people on it).  There are views, yet because it is in a neighborhood, you’ll see some luxury homes in the background.  If you were planning wedding at Sapphire Point, this is a GREAT “Plan B” option as it is located between Breckenridge and Sapphire Point.  You can still keep most all your plans and logistics the same.  We have worked here quite a bit with couples who have chosen this spot as a first-option ceremony site.

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Blue Lakes Trail, Breckenridge

11/25/23 UPDATE:  in July of 2023, the owners of the lake put out a statement that they are no longer allowing weddings at Blue Lake (but, we haven't seen any enforcement of this rule).  Additionally, the National Forest Service, who owns the lands around the lake, have stated that they will not allow any parking on the roadway. They have closed an upper parking lot, which means there is very limited parking.  The NFS is also issuing tickets to anyone parked on the road and anyone camping within 100' from the lake.  Therefore, we cannot recommend this as an alternate spot to Sapphire Point, but you will see many others recommending it.  Just know that it comes with logistical issues.  Therefore, if you plan a wedding at Blue Lake, it is a good idea to have a backup "Plan B", carpool & convoy to the site if you plan to have guests (who are aware you may have switch-up plans quickly).  I do know of other alternates near Blue Lake that are on Hosier Pass (continue reading below). . 

Blue Lakes Trial is an area south of Breckenridge, on the way up Hosier Pass.  After turning off the highway, you’ll drive about 2 miles on a gravel road.  A regular vehicle can make it, though it can get slightly bumpy.  There are two parking areas.  Once you arrive, there are 360-degree views of mountains at the base of Blue Lakes.  Waterfalls are in the lower area, though in May were not accessible due to some snow pack.  In a month, Blue Lakes will be stunning.  And though you can get to it now, I would recommend a fur as the air can get chilly (during any time of year)!   From the parking area, there is a slight 2-minute downhill walk to the lake shores.  Alternately, you can walk on the upper level service road (closed to the public) for a ceremony.  I recommend adding 1-hour to your overall wedding day logistics to allow for ample drive time to/from the site.  Bring comfortable walking shoes to maneuver rocky shores/trail.  You can always switch them out during the ceremeony!   

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Hoosier Pass Micro-Wedding Spot

Hosier Pass:  we drove a little bit passed the Blue Lakes road up to Hosier Pass.  It was snow packed and we were tired from a day of scouting.  So, we are reserving this for another day.  I’m still open to it, but for now and in May, I don’t recommend it.  Next month, I’ll head up there are hike the small look trail.  So, this site may be good for the hiking couple who wants to DIY their own ceremony with a photographer.  We can alway bring a cake to the trailhead to serve up some yummies and celebrate!
11/25/23 UPDATE:  upon exploring this area further, we were able to find a unique spot with 360° mountain views.  Please read about Hayden and Jessie's wedding.  And yes - I'm keeping this spot secret for our clients - which, you can become one!

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Montgomery Reservoir

Montgomery Reservoir:  this came recommended by a Colorado photographer (not one of ours).   Though it looks fantastic on the map, I thought that having a ceremony here would be really difficult.  The drive here can be confusing with several routes, and a little lengthy - you would want to carpool and convoy with your group. There isn’t really great spots for parking (just off the side of the road).  And, the road around the lake can get slim.  The water level was pretty low, so the shores were kind-of ugly (again we went in May so as the snow melts, the lake will fill).  There were plenty of people fishing in the area, and camping at the base below the dam.  The only spot that I could see for a ceremony would be along side the road on top of the rock - that is, without hiking down to the lake which would have been a trek!  

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MORE! Small Wedding Venue Downloads ⬇️

If you want more information and resources, please checkout these comprehensive downloads that include over 20 pages of my best planning tips/ideas for small intimate weddings, lots more cermeony sites beyond this aritcle, listings of restaurants for post-ceremony celebrations/dinner (good for serving groups), and lodging recommendations.  

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Eagle County (Vail, Beaver Creek) Site Report

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Vacation House Property Sites - Download Now

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Summit County Ceremony Site Report - Download Now

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Colorado Micro-Wedding Venues

If you are wanting to marry in Colorado with an elopement, micro-wedding or small intimate wedding (less than 40 people), I have a great "Getting Started" service which helps you find the perfect micro-wedding site for you!  It's basically a written consultation:  you fill out a quesionnaire with details like group size, budget, priorities, vision, needs, time of year, guest considerations, etc.  Then, I create a custom report for you "off-the-'beaten-path" spots and send it to you with a personalized video message.  Yes, planning tips and ideas included!  It is possible to have that dreamy Colorado mountain backdrop for your small intimate wedding.  Get started today and connect with me!  ~ Wendee

Getting Started: Site Report

$300.00

We are excited to help you find the ceremony site and locale that will fit best with your needs, vision, and budget! Because often the hardest part to planning a wedding is choosing the date, destination and ceremony site, we offer a brief service to assist couples in getting started. 

• Complete a questionnaire
• Receive a report with at least three and up to five ceremony destinations and sites suited to your needs, budget and style
• Post report phone call, up to 30 minutes

The $300 payment can be applied toward an Intimate Wedding Package. In other words, this is the first payment should you choose to book the package. You'll receive basic recommendations, and advice for planning a small wedding or elopement. Keep in mind that we try to find “off-the-beaten-path” ceremony sites conducive to small, spirited, scenic weddings (often on public lands); we then recommend restaurants with private dining rooms/area or private chefs for catering at a vacation house. If you are looking for a typical wedding venue or banquet hall that is often advertised, we are not it. If your are looking for something gorgeous, lighthearted, outdoorsy, easy, memorable, personable, yummy and quality designed - then we are totally it!

YES! I need this

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